A mine rescue team is a specialized group of trained personnel responsible for responding to emergency situations in mining operations, such as cave-ins, fires, entrapment of miners or major disasters that affect the operation of the mine. Their primary role is to ensure the safety of miners by conducting search and rescue operations, administering first aid, and providing critical support during incidents.
The importance of mine rescue teams cannot be overstated, as they help minimize injury and loss of life, protect valuable resources, and maintain the overall integrity of mining operations. Their expertise not only enhances safety protocols but also fosters a culture of preparedness within mining companies, ultimately ensuring a safer workplace for all employees while giving assurance that if they are ever in harm’s way they will be there. There is a saying in mine rescue that lives in the heart of every team member “First one’s in and Last one out”.
On March 3, 2025, the Buchanan Red Mine Rescue team attended the Southeastern Regional Mine Rescue competition in Sevierville, Tennessee. A total of 25 coal companies sent teams to compete in the two-day competition.
The two-day event centres around ironman real-life gauntlet challenges such as sledgehammer contest, up-hill bear crawl, drainpipe crawls, 150-lb rescue dummy drag, fire hose management, sawing timbers, and navigating smoke rooms.
All the challenges are performed by packing a 42lb mine rescue apparatus, while under oxygen.
The 8 member Buchanan Red Mine Rescue team achieved 1st place overall out of the 25 teams competing. The team has an average of 16 years service with the Buchanan Minerals operation.
The Buchanan Gold team also won 3rd place at the Post 7 competition in Abingdon, VA in June 2025.
